When Sébastien Migne left Kenya in August 2019, few could have predicted that the Frenchman sacked by the Football Kenya Federation would one day become the architect of one of the most remarkable underdog stories in world football.
Six years later, the same coach who ended Harambee Stars’ 15-year wait for an Africa Cup of Nations appearance has now guided Haiti to their first-ever FIFA World Cup qualification. On Monday night, Haiti secured their place in the expanded 48-team 2026 tournament with a 2-0 victory over Nicaragua, sealing their historic achievement.
Migne, who has never set foot in Haiti, has masterminded the campaign entirely from afar, relying on video analysis, virtual meetings, and a deep trust in his players. Speaking after qualification was confirmed, he praised the squad’s togetherness and resilience, qualities that have carried the Caribbean nation through a grueling qualification journey.
The contrast with Kenya’s current fortunes is stark. While the Harambee Stars struggle under new management, the man once labeled “not good enough” for Kenyan football has just achieved what no Haitian coach has ever done. The irony has not been lost on Kenyan football followers, many of whom now openly question the decision to part ways with Migne in 2019.History, it seems, has delivered its verdict.
